Uniform State Test (UST) Implementation Information

Overview

On April 1, 2013 NMLS launched the Uniform State Test or UST. This is the first major change to SAFE MLO Test requirements since the SAFE MLO tests were launched in July, 2009.

The UST is a new domain or section in the National Test. This new domain includes 25 questions which brings the length of the National Test Component with Uniform State Content to 125 questions, of which 115 are scored and ten are un-scored. See table below for more details on the features of the test components.

The UST material tests applicants on their knowledge of high level state-related content that is based on the SAFE Act and the CSBS/AARMR Model State Law (MSL) which many states used to implement the SAFE Act. The content outline for the new National Test Component with Uniform State Content, including references, can be found here.

The UST replaces the state-specific test components for the states that adopt it. Therefore, a passing result on the National Test with Uniform State Content satisfies the testing requirements for licensure in those adopting states, and any states that adopt in the future.

As of July 15, 2015, 47 state mortgage agencies have adopted the UST. The remaining state agencies may elect to adopt the UST at a future date, but they are not required to do so. State agencies which choose not to adopt the UST will continue to require applicants to take and pass the current state specific test components. For a list of state agencies that have adopted the UST, see the UST Adoption Map and Table.

Test Feature Chart

Test Component

# Items

Test Length

Appointment Length

Test Fees

National Test Component with Uniform State Content

125 total;

115 scored

190 minutes

225 minutes

$110

State Test Components

55 - 65 total;

45 - 55 scored

90 minutes

120 minutes

$69

Each test appointment includes an additional 30-35 minutes for completing a tutorial and an optional candidate exit survey.